Nissan LEAF 62kWH extended range EV set to be FULL production model

The Nissan LEAF 3.0 e+, Nissan’s ‘Limited Edition’ 62kWh LEAF EV is set to become a full production model alongside the regular 40kWh version.

It was no surprise to see the Nissan LEAF 3.0 e+ rolled out in January with an increased battery capacity – 62kWh – and 214bhp as Nissan looked to make the LEAF more appealing in the glare of competition from EV newcomers.

But what was a bit of a surprise is that the LEAF 3.0 e+ was a ‘Limited Edition’ model, with just 5,000 allocated for the whole of Europe.

Perhaps it was just a toe in the water for Nissan to see if demand existed for a bigger range LEAF, and if that was the case the fact that they sold 1,000 LEAF 3.0 e+ models on the first day it was released, and 3,000 in the first month, has made it clear buyers want a bigger range LEAF.

So, sensibly, Nissan are now planning to deliver the 62kWh version of the LEAF as a mainstream production model, according to Ken Ramirez, Nissan’s Head of Sales in Europe, speaking to Autocar.

But although Nissan are going to launch the 62kWh version of the LEAF as a mainstream model, Ramirez expects the 40kWh LEAF to remain the biggest seller.

He said that range was only the third ranked consideration for LEAF buyers (after spec and ‘green-ness), and that LEAF buyers were bright enough to only pick the 62kWh version if they actually needed the additional range.

We’re not entirely sure that’s right, as the 214bhp on offer in the 62kWh is also a consideration, as is the fact in can charge at up to 70kW for quicker recharging.

No news of when the 62kWh version will arrive as an option, but we can’t see Nissan leaving it too long.